Christopher Tyrick Gattis, a 24-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on August 16, 2020, in Burlington, North Carolina. Gattis was a beloved member of his community, known for his love of sports, video games, and his dedication to his family and friends. He was a full-time student at Liberty University and had a special bond with his "49 Line" family in Green Level.
Gattis was a devoted father to his children, Kross Alexander Gattis and Brysen Gattis, and was cherished by his parents, siblings, and extended family.
On the night of August 16, 2020, Gattis was attending a party at a home on the 2200 block of James Boswell Road in Green Level. As he was leaving the party, he was shot. Deputies from the Alamance County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene at approximately 12:55 a.m. Gattis was transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries a short time later. The investigation into his death revealed that he was attempting to leave the home when he was shot.
The suspect in the shooting was identified as Lloyd Carvon Gillis Jr., a 29-year-old male from Burlington. Gillis was charged with felony first-degree murder in connection with Gattis's death. Following the incident, Gillis fled the state and was later apprehended in DeLand, Florida, by deputies from the Volusia County Sheriff's Office. During his arrest, Gillis initially provided a false name, but was ultimately identified through a fingerprint scan and distinctive tattoos on his chest. In addition to the murder charge, Gillis faced charges for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, violation of parole, giving a false name upon being detained, resisting without violence, and possession of MDMA and suspected heroin.
The tragic death of Christopher Tyrick Gattis left a profound impact on his family, friends, and community. His memory is cherished by those who knew him, and his loss serves as a stark reminder of the senseless violence that can shatter lives. The legal proceedings against Lloyd Carvon Gillis Jr. continue as the justice system seeks to hold him accountable for his actions.
